Promotional Media (Taught)

Unlock creative and collaborative careers as you explore the role of promotional media and communication in society, culture and the economy.

Promotion is fundamental to modern society. From marketing products and services to raising funds for charities, promotional culture is everywhere. It spans distinctive yet intertwined areas such as public relations, marketing communication, advertising, and branding.

But how does promotional communication shape the way we understand the world? Rather than learning specific promotional communication practices, in this course, you’ll critically analyse them and their influence within society from different perspectives.

Your studies will help equip you with the critical, creative and strategic skills valued by employers in the media. For instance, you’ll critically examine the ethics of those who shape the culture of promotion activities, such as PR, marketing communication, and branding. And you’ll closely examine the social impacts of promotional communication on areas as diverse as journalism, the music industry and political comms.

"The course provides an invaluable opportunity to explore the cultural history of promotional media. I developed an in-depth understanding of the industry and critically evaluated its roles."

Yutong Lian, MA Promotional Media

Why study at Leeds

• Strong industry connections: Our school collaborates with the likes of the BBC, Ofcom, UK Government and European Commission to understand challenges and inform policy – partnerships and expertise that directly inform your teaching.

• Fully equipped facilities: The School of Media and Communication is home to a 58-seat cinema, 80 editing bays, a cutting-edge TV studio and an extensive equipment loan service. You’ll also have access to Helix, the University's learning innovation hub for students, staff, and the local community.

• Guaranteed industry experience: While studying at Leeds, you’ll have the chance to work with clients and gain consultancy experience as part of a 2-week online Global Industry Programme.

• Learn and live in a key media city: From Channel 4’s national headquarters to a vibrant PR scene, Leeds is a northern powerhouse.  Leeds and Bradford continue to lead in promoting the media too, providing a learning environment full of opportunity.

• Close to world‑class institutions: Bradford is home to the National Science and Media Museum and the National New Media Collection, giving you direct access to significant film and digital culture archives.

• Excellent prospects: Graduate from one of the universities most targeted by the UK’s top employers (High Fliers, The Graduate Market Report 2026).

Rankings and awards

• 34th in the world for Communication and Media Studies, QS World Rankings by Subject 2026

• 4th in the UK for Communication and Media Studies, The Times and the Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026

Where this degree could take you
Graduates of this course have gone on to succeed in sectors and roles across the media, including:

• digital marketing

• advertising

• branding

• public relations

• journalism

• in-house media roles within the likes of finance, non-profit, and legal

Careers support
Top 10 most targeted for 10+ years by the UK's leading employers, The Graduate Market 2026, High Fliers Research

At Leeds, we help you to prepare for your future from day one.

Our Careers Service has the global expertise and sector-spanning industry partnerships that, combined, go way beyond simply helping you get a job. They provide you with the resources you need to upskill and achieve the future you aspire towards – even in the face of lightning-paced change.